About the opportunity
The Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry at the University of Helsinki is seeking a Professor or tenure track Assistant / Associate Professor in Animal Science. The position focuses on research and teaching in ruminant nutrition and production physiology, specifically cattle and sheep, as well as associated environmental and production systems. The appointee will teach and supervise students at Bachelor’s, Master’s, and doctoral levels, and contribute to the sustainable development of ruminant production within a responsible food system. The role offers an opportunity to work in a diverse, multidisciplinary research environment on the Viikki campus, supported by comprehensive benefits and professional development.
Salary and benefits
- Gross annual salary of €70,000 to €96,000 for Professors, depending on qualifications and experience
- Gross annual salary of €55,000 to €72,000 for Assistant/Associate Professors, depending on qualifications and experience
- Relocation support for international staff moving to Finland
- Language learning support with time for studies included in the annual work plan
- Flexible work arrangements and comprehensive occupational health care
- Wide-ranging, low-cost UniSport services
- Professional development support, including versatile staff training and mentoring
Who can apply?
- Must hold a doctoral degree by the end of the application period (October 19, 2026)
- For Assistant/Associate Professor: Ability to conduct independent scholarly work, required teaching skills, and motivation to pursue an academic career
- For Professor: High-level academic qualifications, experience leading scientific research, ability to provide research-based teaching and supervise theses, evidence of international cooperation, and academic leadership skills
- Good English language skills (required for teaching in English-language programmes and international collaboration)
- Good spoken and written proficiency in Finnish or Swedish, and satisfactory proficiency in the other national language (or commitment to achieve intermediate proficiency within a reasonable time)
- Broad understanding of agriculture and livestock production (knowledge of the Finnish livestock production sector is considered an advantage)
Required documents
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- A short motivation letter and report on research development plans (1-2 pages)
- Report on research activities, including scientific communities, funding acquisition, and international work (max. 5 pages)
- A numbered list of publications
- A report on pedagogical expertise following the University portfolio instructions
When to apply
- Applications must be submitted by October 19, 2026, at 23:59 EEST (Europe/Helsinki time)
How to apply
- Combine all required documents into a single PDF file named 'animal science_lastname_firstname.pdf'
- External applicants: Submit the application through the University of Helsinki Recruitment System via the 'Apply now' link
- Internal applicants (with a helsinki.fi username and valid contract/grant): Submit the application using the 'Employee login' link
Additional information
- The position is subject to a six-month trial period
- The appointee is expected to reside in Finland while employed by the University of Helsinki
- Animal Science is taught at the university level in Finland exclusively at the University of Helsinki
- Shortlisted applicants may be requested to submit 5-10 selected publications and undergo an aptitude evaluation
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Doctoral degree holders with expertise in ruminant nutrition and production physiology.
- Academics with a strong background in teaching and a desire to contribute to sustainable food systems.
- Candidates with international research experience and the ability to lead scientific teams.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position requires residency in Finland, though relocation support is provided.
- While English is used for teaching, there is a requirement to achieve intermediate proficiency in Finnish or Swedish, which may require a time investment.
- The role involves a six-month trial period, which is standard for this type of appointment.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position provides a stable, long-term academic career path within a multidisciplinary environment. It is well-suited for a researcher looking to influence the future of sustainable agriculture and livestock production while gaining experience in academic leadership and international collaboration.
Our take
A premier choice for established or emerging academics in animal science. Candidates unwilling to relocate to Finland or commit to learning a national language should consider other options.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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